If you are trying to achieve a goal, the more often that you monitor your progress, the greater the likelihood that you will succeed, according to research. Your chances of success are even more likely if you report your progress publicly or physically record it.

I think this applies to many goals and life changes. There are times, however, when it’s counterproductive. Unless you’re a professional finance professional or a very skilled day trader, following your investment values hour by hour, or day to day, is not going to pay rewards. In fact it may do harm to your portfolio and to your mental health.

Similarly, if shame is involved, frequent monitoring to say nothing of publishing progress can do harm. That’s often the case with weight loss and more so if one feels acute distress about his/her body. A long term strategy with specific objectives and more than one measure will serve you better.